WILL ZVORNIK’S MEDIEVAL ĐURĐEV GRAD FORTRESS GET A NEW LEASE OF LIFE?

A new initiative could open the way for the preservation and future revitalisation of Đurđev Grad, the medieval fortress overlooking the city of Zvornik, as experts from several Belgrade-based institutions have visited the site to explore possibilities for its future use.

PHOTO: TO Zvornik

Representatives of the Faculty of Architecture, the Archaeological Institute and the Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering in Belgrade toured the historic fortress to assess its architectural features and natural surroundings, as well as potential options for giving the site a new purpose.

According to the Zvornik City Administration, the visit was part of a cooperation initiative focused on researching the material elements and natural layers of this protected cultural heritage site.

STUDENTS TO EXPLORE FUTURE USE OF THE FORTRESS

The Faculty of Architecture has included the Zvornik fortress in its master's degree programme, as part of the Studio Project course.

Through research and architectural design work, students will examine possibilities for preserving the fortress and developing appropriate ways of using the historic complex in the future.

The initiative is expected to bring new professional perspectives on how this valuable heritage site could be protected while becoming a more accessible and attractive destination.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY TO PROVIDE THE BASIS FOR CONSERVATION

Representatives of the Archaeological Institute also familiarised themselves with the terrain ahead of a planned photogrammetric survey, which will be carried out once the vegetation has receded.

The survey will provide detailed visual and spatial documentation of the site, followed by the preparation of an expert report on its current condition. This document will serve as an important professional foundation for developing the main conservation project.

The cooperation between the City of Zvornik, the Faculty of Architecture and the two Belgrade-based institutes is being carried out with the approval of the Republic Institute for the Protection of Cultural, Historical and Natural Heritage of Republika Srpska.

A FORTRESS WITH MORE THAN SIX CENTURIES OF HISTORY

Đurđev Grad is a unique medieval fortification consisting of three sections – the Lower, Middle and Upper Town – covering a total area of approximately 49,000 square metres.

Part of the complex occupies a steep hillside, while the rest extends across a plateau on Mlađevac Hill, overlooking Zvornik.

According to historical sources, the fortress was built in the early 14th century. In 1433, it was captured by Serbian ruler Đurađ Branković or presented to him as a gift by the Hungarian king. The fortress subsequently became associated with his name.

It is also known as Jerina's Town, reflecting local traditions that attribute its construction to Đurađ Branković's wife, Irene, popularly known as the Cursed Jerina.

Irene Branković was born into the Greek Kantakouzenos family, and her original name was Irene Kantakouzene. She married Đurađ Branković on 26 December 1414. He ruled Serbia from 1427 to 1456.

Today, the planned research and cooperation with academic and scientific inst itutions could represent an important step towards safeguarding Đurđev Grad and exploring new opportunities for its cultural, historical and tourism potential.